A truly unique Rugby experience - Challenge Cup & Champions Cup Finals 2018
4
4
Date of visit: May 2018
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
I use or have experience of: walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
The home of Athletico Bilbao Football Club was transformed into the home of the European Rugby Championships for a weekend in May this year and what a weekend it was! Experiencing two fantastic games Rugby in an incredible stadium was amazing! Very accessible regardless of where in the city you were travelling from, there were a few slopes inside the ground however they weren't too steep. The Wheelchair spaces within the San Mamés were the reason I only rated it four stars because although they were large and spacious, they were located just behind the supporters seating, so if someone tall sat in front of you or stood up your view was completely blocked. Being level with supporters did intensify the atmosphere though which you don't experience at other grounds so it was still very much an enjoyable experience, especially when Rugby is not a very well known in Spain, it was great to sprinkle some Rugby spirit amongst the Spanish locals. The stadium was also fully sheltered from the elements which was great!
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
The disabled access was brilliant, the ground was mostly flat with a few slopes in places which weren't very steep.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
The parking and transport to the stadium was great! You could easily wheel yourself to the ground, the city of Bilbao is mostly flat. The stadium is also very well served by accessible public transport including Buses, Trams and Taxis, which all stop about 3 minutes away from the ground.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
The disabled facilities were good, there were numerous accessible toilets just along from the Wheelchair Spaces, they were large spacious and had numerous grab rails in places should they be required.
Staff
Excellent
The staff were very friendly (despite lack of english) & they couldn't have been more helpful nothing was too much trouble!
Additional Information
I'd recommend it to others - despite the restricted view at times, it didn't impact on viewing the majority of the game. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to be part of the unique Basque country Rugby experience. I'd definitely consider going back.
